Most don’t realize it, but becoming a DJ can be an expensive endeavor. With so much gear involved, spinning tracks and becoming the life of the party is not cheap!
Fortunately, not all of your equipment has to cost you an arm and a leg. The best budget DJ headphones will help you perfect your mix without breaking the bank!
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Are DJ Headphones Different Than Standard Headphones?
Technically speaking, DJs can use any listening device. But, DJ-centric cans do the job a lot better than cheap earbuds or casual-listening models. They serve a particular purpose!
DJs rely on their headphones to cue tracks and achieve seamless beatmatching. Contrary to popular belief, DJs do so much more than just press the play button!
They have to perfect the mix in real time. That means adjusting EQ, blending tracks, changing speeds, and more. Plus, there’s all of the effects and crowd-pleasing involved!
To be a successful DJ, you must have the ability to hear everything coming out of your mixer perfectly. The only way to do that is with some top-notch DJ headphones designed to provide pristine clarity and fantastic sound quality.
What Makes the Best DJ Headphones?
What are the hallmarks of good DJ headphones anyways? There are several base-level factors to consider when shopping. These features apply to all DJ-focused headphones regardless of price.
Clarity and Sound Quality
Obviously, impressive sound quality is a must. However, the quality is about more than just personal preference. Your headphones should produce a flat frequency response with no coloration.
A flat frequency response means that all frequencies are recreated at the same level. There’s no boosted base or any unique coloration that you’d find with consumer-level models.
That way, you can create a good mix without anything throwing off your ear.
Rotating Ear Cups
Swiveling cups give you tons of versatility. You can use them to check the audio in one ear while listening to the crowd with the other. Some higher-end models even let you output different tracks to each can. That way, you can preview an upcoming track before you cue it in.
Durability
Your headphones will go through the wringer! Whether you’re playing for an intimate crowd or a roof-thumping party with hundreds of people, they’re going to experience a lot of wear and tear.
Not only will they get bumped around, but the internals will experience a good amount of stress, too. You need headphones that can tough it out even if you’re pushing them to the limit. The last thing you want is headphones that start to produce static after only a few shows.
Sound Isolation
As we mentioned earlier, sound isolation is a must when mixing in loud environments. In addition to the aforementioned closed-back cups, go for over-ear models. Over-ear headphones provide passive noise isolation, which is excellent for creating a much quieter environment around your ears.
The Best Budget DJ Headphones Reviewed
Ready to see some killer DJ headphones that are easy on the wallet? Check out our top picks below.
1. Tascam TH-02 (Best for Beginners)
- Open-back design
- Frequency range: 18Hz – 22KHz
- Driver size: 50mm
- Weight: 1.01 pounds
The TH-02 headphones from Tascam are a worthy contender for beginners. At face value, the gear looks simple. There’s nothing special about the design that makes them stand out. But don’t let that fool you. The internal components are anything but plain!
Inside these cans, you’re getting large 50mm drivers. They help to move tons of air, resulting in a noticeably deep bass. It’s rich and authentic. However, the bass isn’t overbearing like you’d find in other headphones.
On top of all that, the headphones have an extensive frequency response and an overall flat sound. The capabilities of these headphones go beyond human hearing, so there’s no need to worry about distortion or inferior sound.
These are some of the best budget DJ headphones for beginners because they offer a crisp, clear, and flat sound that won’t ruin your mix.
Pros:
- Foldable and rotating cups
- Reinforced pad stitching
- Rich bass tones
- Crisp and clear sound
Cons:
- It May be uncomfortable for some
- The cable isn’t detachable
2. LyxPro HAS-10 (Best for Noise Isolation)
- Open-back design
- Frequency range: 10Hz – 26KHz
- Driver size: 45mm
- Weight: 10.4 ounces
If noise isolation is your main priority, these headphones have you covered. One of the first things you’ll notice about them is the premium leather throughout.
It’s on the headband and covers the cups. The material feels great on the skin. Not only that, but it works alongside the thick foam padding to create an isolating seal around your ears.
It does a fantastic job of drowning out ambient noise and helping you zone out.
Overall, the build quality is pretty impressive. Stainless steel telescoping arms help you get the perfect fit. Meanwhile, the aluminum ear shells are lightweight and sturdy. Despite all the premium materials, the headphones are cost-efficient and surprisingly light.
With the wide frequency response and sound clarity, and you have a pair of headphones that’ll do you well in most DJing situations.
Pros:
- Impressive dynamic response
- Leather material throughout
- Good build quality and durability
- Comfortable and easy to wear
Cons:
- Bass is on the heavier side
3. MAONO AU-MH601 (Best for Studio and Home DJs)
- Open-back design
- Frequency range: 20Hz – 20KHz
- Driver size: 50mm
- Weight: 14.1 ounces
Are you planning to premix your sets at home or in a studio? Check out these cans from MANOA. They’re still closed-back headphones that you can use in rowdier environments. But, the sound quality is suitable for mixing in a controlled environment, too.
The biggest draw is the sound quality. It’s nothing to write home about in terms of coloration, which is a good thing! The sound is neutral and flat. The bass is crisp without being overwhelming.
Meanwhile, the mids are clean, and the highs are nice and pronounced. The headphones have all the hallmarks of a good pair of studio monitors!
As if that weren’t good enough, these headphones are built very well. Premium materials feel nice on the skin, and the relatively lightweight build makes it comfortable enough to wear for long DJ sessions. While not the most durable in the world, they’ll do fine in calm studios.
Pros:
- Neutral and flat sound
- Clean and crisp bass
- Versatile fit
- Cozy materials
Cons:
- Not the most durable
4. OneOdio Wired (Best for Mixing)
- Open-back design
- Frequency range: 20Hz – 20KHz
- Driver size: 50mm
- Weight: 10.56 ounces
Here’s one of the best budget DJ headphones for mixing. It offers decent sound quality for the price. While it can’t hold a candle to professional-quality studio cans, the quality is nothing to turn your nose up at!
The headphones excel most with bass response. The low end feels punchy and alive. Even the highs and mids sound present. They don’t have the muddy sound you sometimes get with cheaper headphones.
From a design standpoint, the OneOdio deserves plenty of praise! The equipment is sleek and worthy of showing off.
Despite the large size of the cups, the headphones are pretty lightweight and easy to wear. They might feel cumbersome to those with smaller heads, but most users won’t have too much of a problem.
The headphones are versatile, too. Thanks to the swiveling cups, you can easily do single-ear monitoring on the fly.
Pros:
- Capable of single-ear monitoring
- Dynamic bass response
- Flexible use
- Foldable and lightweight
Cons:
- Might be too bulky for some users
5. Pioneer DJ HDJ-CUE1 (Best Bluetooth)
- Open-back design
- Frequency range: 5Hz – 30KHz
- Driver size: 40mm
- Weight: 11.25 ounces
Who said you have to be tethered to your DJ deck? With these headphones from Pioneer DJ, you can move untethered! Have fun on stage and jump around with the crowd!
Thanks to the reliable Bluetooth connection, the worry of pulling your equipment with you is a thing of the past!
These are headphones made for the modern DJ. You can connect them to virtually any Bluetooth-capable device. There’s no noticeable lag, and the sound quality is very respectable.
Pioneer DJ uses some great technology to produce impressive sound across the frequency spectrum. In addition to high-quality codecs, the cans have balanced tuning and bass reflex chambers.
You can hear all the fine details of your mix without any issues. Plus, the cups are closed to help you cut out the noise and focus on the tunes.
Pros:
- Reliable wireless connectivity
- Up to 20 hours of battery life
- Crystal-clear sound
- Sleek design
Cons:
- Lower maximum volume
- Fits a bit snug
6. Audio-Technica ATH-M50X (Best for Techno)
- Open-back design
- Frequency range: 15Hz – 28KHz
- Driver size: 45mm
- Weight: 10 ounces
Techno music is pretty demanding. It’s bass-heavy and requires a trained ear to mix properly. With these headphones from Audio Technica, you can listen closely and get things just right.
Audio Technica is one of the most respected brands in the business, so it’s no surprise that the ATH-M50X headphones make the mark.
Inside, you’re getting large drivers powered by rare earth magnets. They pair nicely with the copper-clad aluminum voice coils. Together, these elements produce an impeccable sound that brings even the most delicate details to life.
The thing we like most is that the audio quality is perfect for DJing and studio monitoring alike. There’s minimal coloration, and everything sounds authentically recreated.
The days of struggling to mix techno music are behind you! The headphones help you match your reference without getting lost or misguided by the low end.
Pros:
- Professional-quality sound
- Swiveling cups
- Premium build quality
- Flat and centered sound
Cons:
- Might be too clunky for some
7. PIONEER HDJ-X7-K (Best Professional)
- Open-back design
- Frequency range: 5Hz – 30KHz
- Driver size: 50mm
- Weight: 11 ounces
Here are some headphones that you can use on stage, in the studio, and everywhere in between. They’re professional cans that are built to withstand a lot of wear and tear. You’re getting metal components throughout that are heavily tested for durability. If things should get damaged, most of the external parts are replaceable, which is a huge plus!
Of course, Pioneer didn’t forget about sound quality. The headphones can recreate accurate sound no what you’re mixing. The sound is dynamic and lively. However, it’s also flat and perfect for referencing.
Inside the cups are massive 50mm drivers. They use an optimized diaphragm to create punchy bass without the mud. Highs and mids sound crisp, too.
The most impressive thing about these headphones is the frequency response. They recreate sounds that are well beyond what humans can hear. So, you can rest assured that your music sounds exactly how it was intended to.
Pros:
- Flat and reliable sound
- Portable and lightweight build
- Replaceable parts
- Tested for durability
Cons:
- High clamp strength
Do DJs Use Open-Back Headphones?
One of the first decisions you’ll have to make when shopping for the best budget DJ headphones is the design of the cans. Do you choose open-back headphones or closed-back headphones? Ultimately, the best decision for you depends on where you’re mixing!
Closed-back headphones are the go-to for most DJs in live venues. As the name would imply, the backs of the cups are closed for better sound isolation.
The design cuts back the crowd noise, allowing you to zone out and focus on the mix. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a professional DJ using anything but closed-back models.
Now, if you’re mixing at home or in a studio, it’s a different story. When you’re in a studio, open-back headphones allow air and ambient noise to pass through to your ear. This results in better resonance and more true-to-life sound.
Open-back headphones are better for referencing and can help you make accurate mixing decisions in a controlled environment.
Open-back headphones are fabulous if you’re doing pre-recorded mixes in a studio. But in the presence of rambunctious crowds? Closed-back models are the way to go.
How to Choose Budget DJ Headphones for Beginners
Now that you know how to identify a good pair of DJ headphones let’s talk about some budget-conscious features. The headphone market today is massive!
Tons of premium consumer and professional-level cans are up for grabs. To ensure that you’re choosing one that takes your DJing to the next level without costing a fortune, keep an eye out for these features.
Closed-Back Design
Closed-back headphones are a good universal choice. Open-backs are suitable for studio mixing, but you’re probably going to spend most of your time flexing your skills in front of a crowd, right?
If so, stick to closed-back cans. The good news is that closed-back headphones tend to be cheaper than open or semi-open alternatives.
Wide Frequency Range
Humans can hear frequencies between 20 Hz and 20 kHz. Your hearing range might be a little different, but it still pays to get the most expansive frequency response possible.
Headphones that have limited range will produce a muddy sound that’s not accurate at all.
Adequate Driver Size
A driver is the most critical component in your headphones. It’s responsible for turning the electrical signal into sound.
Drivers can vary in size from 20mm up to around 50mm. In earbuds, they can be even tinier! Many factors contribute to sound quality, and one of them is the driver size. More significant drivers can move more air, which results in more natural resonance and deeper bass. That said, massive drivers often have trouble recreating higher frequencies.
Experiment a bit and see what works for you. Bigger drivers might be better for certain types of music. For example, the best budget DJ headphones for techno music will have a larger driver because it complements the bass-heavy nature of the tracks you’re spinning.
Comfortable Weight
Don’t forget about weight! You might end up spinning for several hours at a time. Heavy cans will only weigh you down and harm your neck. Stick to lightweight headphones that feel as if you’re wearing nothing at all!
Start Off on the Right Foot as a DJ
A good pair of headphones can make all the difference as you spin. Despite what you might have heard, you don’t have to go broke investing in your art. The best budget DJ headphones will serve you well as you perfect your skills.
All of our top picks have a lot to offer. However, we recommend the HDJ-X7-K headphones from Pioneer. The sound quality this gear produces is second to none! They check off all the boxes and are versatile enough to use on location and in the studio.
From bass-heavy EDM to light pop, the Pioneer headphones have what it takes to get you in the zone as you push your skills to the limit. Check them out for yourself and see what you think!
